2022 Volvo Recharge models now offer a larger battery and more electric range

We knew the changes were coming but we weren't sure when. Earlier this month, Volvo confirmed that its 2022 plug-in hybrid Recharge vehicle lineup was getting a new battery which means more all-electric range for its PHEV vehicles. That said, Volvo Recharge models also get more power and more features.

The 11.6-kWh battery now features a third layer of cells which improves capacity to 18.8 kWh. The table below shows the net result of this improved capacity.

*NRCAN Estimated

ˆWhen driven in Pure Mode

As you can see, the resulting improvement in all-electric range is significant. Volvo models like the XC60 Recharge and XC90 Recharge offer nearly twice the electric range of the outgoing models. That means that most Volvo Recharge owners will be able to complete their daily commute without needing a single drop of fuel. In a world where the price of gas is steadily increasing, this is not insignificant.

That said, the improved range is only the beginning of the improvements made to the 2022 Volvo Recharge lineup. The rear electric motor that combines with the front gas engine now delivers 143 horsepower, a 65% improvement over the previous electric motor. That means that Volvo Recharge models now deliver 455 horsepower, making them the most powerful Volvo vehicles ever built.

Other impressive changes include the addition of one-pedal driving which means that you can control the accelerator and braking using only the right pedal.

“Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles play an important role in the shift to electrification,” said Matt Girgis, managing director, Volvo Car Canada. “These upgraded powertrains will demonstrate the many benefits of an electric future and will serve as an enabling technology that will encourage more consumers to adopt the electric lifestyle.”